IT'S usually a good sign when you see a queue forming in the door of a restaurant. It must be the place to eat with would-be diners clamouring to get that last table.

We had had the foresight to book beforehand as on previous visits to Olivo's we had been left queuing in the cold. So we strolled past the shivering queue and were led straight to our table.

We were handed the menu and left to browse over it for what seemed like an age which allowed us time to absorb the atmosphere and understand the real reason for the lengthy queue - there were plenty of free tables but noone to prepare them for waiting customers. Unfortunately a lack of staff was the real reason that the queue continued to grow.

Once we had attracted the attention of the waiting staff our order was swiftly taken by a very polite waitress who was very apologetic for the delay.

Our drinks arrived promptly and we sat back and enjoyed a glass of wine as we waited for our food to arrive, which to our surprise followed fairly quickly.

We had ordered garlic bread and garlic pizza bread to start. Both contained enough garlic to stink out a cemetery full of vampires.

Our main courses, a lasagne and a parma pizza (without the rocket topping), were huge and my partner achieved the impossible by finishing every last bit of his pizza before declaring himself 'completely stuffed'. My lasagne was delicious - really meaty and the pasta sheets were tasty.

The food was first class but it was a good job that we weren't in a hurry. Booking is definitely recommended.

Reservations: 023 9221 1473